The Historical Significance of National "Maritime Day" – Dr. Shrinivas Mahavar
Udaipur : An online seminar was organized on the eve of "National Maritime Day" under the aegis of the Janmat Manch. Speaking on this occasion, Dr. Shrinivas Mahavar—Founder and President of Janmat Manch—explained that "National Maritime Day" (or "National Ocean Day") is observed annually. This day is celebrated to commemorate the maiden voyage of India's first Indian-flagged merchant vessel, the 'SS Loyalty,' which sailed from Mumbai Port to London on April 5, 1919.
This marked a pivotal event in the history of India's maritime transport. It was a memorable achievement, as it constituted the first such voyage from India to Britain during the era of British rule. Despite the maritime routes being under British control, Indians successfully navigated these very paths.
With the objective of fostering awareness regarding intercontinental commerce and the global economy, this day was officially observed for the first time in the year 1964.
India's Maritime History
India's maritime history dates back to the 3rd millennium BCE. During that period, the inhabitants of the Indus Valley Civilization established maritime trade relations with Mesopotamia. According to Vedic records, Indian merchants and traders initially engaged in commerce with the Arab world and the nations of the Far East.
The Naval Department under the Mauryan Dynasty
A study of the Mauryan Dynasty reveals the existence of a distinct 'Naval Department,' which was established specifically to oversee merchant vessels. Through these ships, various Indian commodities reached as far as the Roman world. Gradually, trade between India and the Greco-Roman world flourished; consequently, spices—along with silk and other luxury goods—became the primary commodities exported from India to the Western world.
The Rise of Indian Shipping
This rich legacy of maritime history continued to endure. Anant: It was through this initiative that Indian shipping emerged, commencing its commercial voyage on April 5, 1919 AD. (The vessel, named "SS Loyalty," was built by the Scindia Steam Navigation Company Limited) and departed from the Mumbai port bound for the United Kingdom.
The Forum's Secretary, Shirish Nath Mathur, stated that in 1959 AD, India became a member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This organization is responsible for maritime safety and the prevention of pollution caused by ships.
Furthermore, maritime transport ensures safe transit while also fostering environmental protection. It provides vital waterways for international trade and commerce, and generates employment for millions of people in sectors such as fisheries and tourism.
In the current financial year, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has allocated a budget of ₹12.2 lakh crore for the development of the maritime sector and marine infrastructure.
*National Maritime Day Awards*
On this auspicious day, an awards ceremony is organized to honor the contributions made by individuals toward the Indian maritime sector. During this ceremony, the 'Varuna Award' is conferred. The award consists of a statuette of Lord Varuna and a citation, recognizing an individual's long and exceptional contribution to the maritime field.
For adventure activities related to the sea or water (such as sailing and diving), the Government of India presents the 'Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award,' which is considered one of the nation's highest honors. This award includes a cash prize of up to ₹15 lakh and is regarded as being equivalent to the Arjuna Award.
The Forum's Assistant Secretary, Vinod Kumar Chaudhary, remarked: "It is difficult to even imagine life on Earth without the ocean." The ocean serves as Earth's life-support system, providing over 70% of the planet's oxygen. Acting as a massive carbon sink, it regulates the climate, maintains global temperature equilibrium, and remains indispensable to human civilization as a primary source of food (fish), transportation (facilitating 90% of global trade), and livelihood. On this occasion, Dr. Kunal Ameta stated that the ocean holds vast reserves of oil, natural gas, and other mineral resources, which are vital for the global economy.
The ocean is not merely a vast body of water; it is of paramount importance to our very existence. Its conservation is absolutely essential.
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